“As a professional, you should always respect your opponents irrespective of their qualities,” the Fenerbahce forward said.

“They think they can beat us because they have individual players. But football is beyond that stage now.”

Emenike insists that the team are not currently thinking about either Argentina or Bosnia-Herzegovina, as their immediate focus is on Iran who they will play against at the Estádio Joaquim Americo Guimaraes in Curtiba in June 16.

“Our first match against Iran is very crucial. Right now, I am thinking about Iran, not Bosnia or Argentina.”

The 27-year-old believes this year’s World Cup is going to be very challenging, as every participating team has a point to prove. He however stated that with teamwork, he is confident Nigeria will do well at the tournament.

“This World Cup is going to be interesting and full of surprises because there are so many wounded lions in Brazil. We want to fight hard on the pitch and win.

“I know the battle ahead of me and the team, but I am banking on team effort, that’s the only way to succeed.”